How to Bullnose Corners of Drywall Around Windows

Bullnose and tools are available at most home centers.

Bullnose for drywall is manufactured in metal, vinyl and paper-faced beads. The trim provides an alternative to square outside corners by softening the finished look. Typically, metal bullnose is used in commercial construction, vinyl in homes and paper-faced when doing patchwork. Regardless of the type, installation is more reliable using staples instead of adhesive or setting the beads in drywall mud. The average home-improvement enthusiast can bullnose drywall corners around windows in a relatively short time.

1

Measure the distance between the inside faces of drywall at the top and bottom of the window opening. Mark two pieces of bullnose to length with a pencil and cut them with sheet-metal scissors.

2

Set up a staple gun with 1/2-inch staples. Attach the pieces at the outside corners at the top and bottom of the opening with staples every 3 inches along the flat bands of the beads.

3

Measure the distance at one side of the window opening between the rounded portions of the upper and lower beads. Mark and cut a piece of bullnose to this length.

4

Mark a 45-degree angle at each end of the piece with the pencil. The angles are toward each other, similar to one side of a picture frame, and the angle is not critical. Imprecise corners are filled with drywall mud. Cut the angles with the sheet-metal scissors.

5

Fit the piece in place at the side of the window opening with the miter cuts atop the rounded beads of the upper and lower pieces. Staple the bands of the piece as before. Repeat this procedure and install the mitered piece at the opposite side of the opening.

Things You Will Need

Measuring tape

Pencil

Sheet-metal scissors

Staple gun

1/2-inch staples

Tip

Make one or more 45-degree cuts on a short piece of bullnose to establish the angle that fits best.

About the Author

William Machin began work in construction at the age of 15, while still in high school. In 35 years, he's gained expertise in all phases of residential construction, retrofit and remodeling. His hobbies include horses, motorcycles, road racing and sport fishing. He studied architecture at Taft Junior College.